DNA binding by the Rev1 BRCT region : implications for biological and structural function

Abstract

Rev1, a protein belonging to the Y-family of polymerases, is a key protein in the process of DNA Translesion Synthesis, and other DNA damage tolerance pathways. Recent studies have shown that its BRCT region is essential for the organisation of TLS events by Rev1. However, the molecular mechanism that supports this role remains elusive. This thesis sheds a light on the possible molecular mechanism provided by the Rev1 BRCT region, and discusses the biological relevance of this mechanism. Furthermore, a link is provided with a BRCT region in another protein, Rfc1. Together these two BRCT regions represent a novel class in the BRCT superfamily.